Celebrating 30 years of the WA Industry and Export Awards

Applications are now open for the Western Australian Industry and Export Awards 2018, comprising 18 categories for small, medium and large companies located in Western Australia.

Celebrating its 30th year, the Industry and Export Awards recognise the achievements of WA's industry and exporters across a diverse market sector.

The awards honour and acknowledge those Western Australian businesses achieving success in international trade.

The 2018 awards will launch today (May 9) and winners will be announced at a gala event on October 18, 2018.

The awards complement the Australian Export Awards (AEA) program which is conducted nationally each year.

Of the 18 categories, 13 are export categories aligned with the AEA. There are three State exporter categories, including the Defence Exporters Award, and two industry awards.

Last year, Epichem won the WA Exporter of the Year award as well as the Health and Biotechnology Exporter Award.

The awards are the State's most prestigious business awards since their inception in 1988. They are managed by the State Government and the Export Council of Australia, along with corporate sponsors including Austrade, Australian Border Force, Rio Tinto, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade WA, Efic, Business Foundations and Core Hub.

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"Growing the State's economy through diversification and innovation will help to create jobs and lead to more exports.

"The Western Australian Industry and Export Awards program is now in its 30th year, and during that time WA's exports have grown significantly.

"Annual export figures have grown from $7 billion in 1988 to over $123 billion in 2018, making the State a major contributor to the nation's export industry, accounting for 41 per cent of Australia's merchandise exports in 2017.

"Western Australians are successfully competing on the global stage, and the Government is committed to continuing this success story as we grow and diversify the State's economy.

"For 30 years, these awards have helped to open doors for emerging and established exporters, while providing well-earned recognition for companies that are true leaders.

"There are multiple opportunities for businesses across the State to enter the awards, and be recognised for their excellence and commitment to our exporting future.

"Entry also provides businesses with opportunities to raise their profile and expand their engagement with the international trade community through participation in associated business and networking events.

"Finalists and winners of an Industry and Export Award add their names to a prestigious list of businesses, respected and recognised by industry peers for their outstanding export success."